Piking

[forest of dean redneck 11,771]

 

I thought the pike were caught more in cold weather and didn't bite in warm?

 

They eat all year round of course but in the summer they can ambush passing fish thus using far less energy. Using less energy means they don't need to eat so often.

Makes sense ,less cover in winter as well I suppose.

[Kal 17]

Thanks for that information everyone; much appreciated and makes sense!

[toxo 160]

There are a few reasons why a lot of anglers like to do their Piking in the winter.

As above, they're more active and feed more often.

There are less people on the banks in the winter.

Less fuss regarding bait. Any smallish fish bait can live in the freezer so just take it out the night before or if using a fragile bait like a Sardine take it out on the day. It will stay together longer. You can also of course use lures.

The best reason for me? Travel light. My favourite technique is to be mobile with just a rod, some bait and a net. Search out the p***y looking holes using a sink and draw movement. Clip a single treble hook wire trace on to a baiting needle, Using any small fish (joey mackerel or herring last a long time)put the needle in through the bum and out through the top or bottom lip. Put a single swan shot or similar just in front of the nose and you're done. Cast into anywhere that looks good, allow it to sink to the bottom and slowly bring it to the surface. Drop the rod top and it will slowly wobble back to the river bed nose first. Repeat and repeat. Remember to give it some time because it's like a cat and mouse. That Pike might watch it go past his nose 5/6 times but eventually he has to go for it. He can't help himself. Also, the flashing of the bait in the water may have attracted a fish from outside the swim. Make sure you watch the bait coming in. Sometimes they'll follow the bait right up to the bank. Don't panic, just cast to him again.

 

You will get lucky and when you do treat him with respect and get him back in asap and remember to thank him for the rush you've just had and for getting you out in the countryside on such a great day.

Tight lines one and all.

[Kal 17]

"There are less people on the banks in the winter."

"The best reason for me? Travel light. My favourite technique is to be mobile with just a rod, some bait and a net."

 

Factor in a great fish like a Pike and that sounds like heaven!

 

Will have to have a go at some point.